Yes, Vaughn I do not doubt you are correct in the belief that if good old Heinrich were still goose stepping around a retirement home with his dagger at his side, (a "sure fire" way to be put on HEAVY doses of meds.) it would surly gleam...
But that period in history is over, and the time that has passed since 1945 is reflected in everything. Especially those things which we consider to be "historic antiques". Both of those words eluding to a passage through time which we can neither control nor re-visit, hence the value of these pieces as being both antique and historic.
Age is a consistant side effect, I am afraid, of the passage of 60+ years. The result of this journey through time has left both Mr. Springer and his dagger...antiqued (Though I will assune that dear Heinrich looks the worse for wear by comaprison.). This age (and I am NOT speaking of "grime") is somthing that most antique collectiors consider to be of importance, because it speaks less to the authenticity of the piece and more to the history to which it can be attributed.
Hence much of the historical relevence and connection.
Infact I would question whether one can determine any other antique collectible which does not decrease in value by giving it a good cleaning from natural age or patina..
If there is "grime" clean it off, if there is natural age and patina, leave it be (IMO).
If someone ever decides in another 60 years to dig up dear Heinrich and sell his antique (yet period authentic
) corpse on the open market I personally would suggest avioding the temptation to run him threough a car wash, give him a shave, gel his hair back into place, or smear him with lip gloss to pretty him up. Just clean off any "grime" (so that he does not deteriorate further)and leave the poor old man alone!
The above statement is only my OPINION, to each his own... After all, Heinrich may well look absolutely dashing in lip gloss! But I will pass...